Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the archaeological significance of the Maqiao culture in the Yangtze River Delta, highlighting its historical context and cultural characteristics as the last recognized archaeological culture in the region before the emergence of historical cultures like Wu and Yue [2][10]. Summary by Sections Discovery and Excavation - The Maqiao site was discovered in the late 1950s during the Great Leap Forward, with significant findings including various pottery and stone tools [3][4]. - The first scientific excavation was conducted by a small team of archaeologists, marking the beginning of scientific archaeology in Shanghai [3][4]. - Subsequent excavations revealed a stratified cultural layer, confirming the presence of Maqiao culture alongside earlier cultures like Liangzhu and Wu-Yue [4][5]. Cultural Characteristics - The Maqiao culture is characterized by its unique artifacts, including pottery, stone tools, and early bronze items, with a notable absence of high-grade jade artifacts [8][11]. - The culture reflects a transition from the advanced Liangzhu culture to a more primitive state, influenced by environmental changes and cultural exchanges with neighboring regions [10][11]. - The pottery from Maqiao culture includes various types such as red pottery and impressed pottery, showcasing a diversity of forms and decorative techniques [8][9]. Historical Context - The Maqiao culture dates back approximately 3,900 to 3,200 years, placing it in the early to mid Shang Dynasty, and is considered part of the Bronze Age cultural landscape of the Taihu basin [5][10]. - The findings suggest a decline in agricultural practices and a shift in subsistence strategies, with hunting becoming more prominent compared to earlier periods [10][11]. - Recent discoveries indicate the existence of urban settlements associated with Maqiao culture, challenging previous notions of its societal structure [12]. Archaeological Impact - The excavation of the Maqiao site has significantly advanced the understanding of Shanghai's historical timeline, suggesting human habitation as far back as 6,000 years ago [12]. - The research conducted at Maqiao has contributed to the broader understanding of cultural development in the Yangtze River Delta, emphasizing the importance of archaeological evidence in reconstructing historical narratives [12].